Mining experts, geoscientists, educators, community and Aboriginal leaders, and resource and industry specialists are gathered in Winnipeg for the annual Manitoba Mining and Minerals Convention, today to Friday at the Winnipeg Convention Centre, Mineral Resources Minister Dave Chomiak said today.

“Our mining and petroleum industries are experiencing continued growth and from 2007 to 2012, the minerals sector was the fastest-growing sector of the Manitoba economy,” Minister Chomiak said. “In 2012, the sector provided jobs for more than 5,700 people, with another 18,000 employed in spinoff businesses.”

The convention highlights the value of minerals and petroleum to Manitoba’s economy and provides insight into the latest developments, opportunities and challenges facing the exploration and mining sector. It provides an excellent opportunity to work together to advance Manitoba’s rich mineral potential and geologically diverse land base, the minister noted.

The annual convention also features a trade show, property showcase and presentations on recent geological findings and exploration projects around the province. On Friday, Nov. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m., the public is invited to participate in various activities including digging for fossils with the Canadian Fossil Discover Centre, panning for gold with champion panner Yukon Dan, and visiting other mineral displays and activities with the Mineral Society of Manitoba.

Mining and petroleum are the province’s second-largest primary resource industry and the province’s world-class deposits are worth more than $3 billion annually in mineral production, Minister Chomiak said.

He also noted capital expenditures on mining and petroleum development totalled an estimated $1.3 billion in 2012 and the industries accounted for approximately seven per cent of provincial gross domestic product and over eight per cent of total exports.